Mberengwa farmers appeal to govt

SUKOLUHLE NDLOVU

Farmers in Mberengwa district, Midlands Province are appealing to the government and developmental partners for supplementary food to mitigate the effects of drought on livestock.

They said they fear that they could lose their livestock to hunger if they do not get supplementary feed, as grazing pastures are depleting.

Mberengwa Farmers Association chairperson, Allan Mpofu told Business Times that if nothing is done, dozens of cattle could succumb to drought which will further lessen the national herd.

“Besides food, there is also water shortage which has resulted in cattle walking for long distances over 10-15 kilometres in search of drinking water. If these issues are not addressed, a number of farmers will lose their herds,” Mpofu said.

He said losing their livestock will be a huge blow as they are an important asset particularly in rural areas as they provide draught power, food and are a source of income.

“They are also important for tillage and are also a form of wealth therefore we can’t afford to lose them,” he said.

The country received low rainfall last year which resulted in most grazing pastures not doing well.